POE, POC and AOC Differences?

šŸ”µ POE (Power over Ethernet)

Definition:

  • Power over Ethernet (POE) allows both power and data to be transmitted over a single Ethernet cable (Cat5e, Cat6, etc.), eliminating the need for separate power cables.

Common Usage:

  • Used to power IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, network switches, and IoT devices.

Advantages:

  • Reduces the need for separate power outlets.
  • Simplifies installation and reduces cabling costs.
  • Centralises power management.

Limitations:

  • Limited power output (up to 90W with POE++).
  • Cable length is generally limited to 100 metres (328 feet).

Example Devices:

  • IP security cameras
  • Wireless access points
  • VoIP phones

šŸŸ¢ POC (Power over Coax)

Definition:

  • Power over Coax (POC) uses coaxial cables to transmit both power and data/video signals. It is commonly used in legacy CCTV systems where coaxial cables are already in place.

Common Usage:

  • Primarily used in analog and HD analog CCTV systems (such as HD-TVI, HDCVI, AHD).
  • Useful for upgrading legacy systems without rewiring.

Advantages:

  • Utilises existing coaxial infrastructure, saving costs.
  • Supports longer cable runs compared to POE (up to 500 metres or more).
  • Provides both video and power over a single coax cable.

Limitations:

  • Less common in modern IP-based systems.
  • Not as flexible as Ethernet cabling for other data transmissions.

Example Devices:

  • HD analog security cameras (HDCVI, HD-TVI, AHD)
  • DVRs for legacy CCTV systems

šŸŸ  AOC (Audio over Coax)

Definition:

  • Audio over Coax (AOC) allows audio signals to be transmitted alongside video signals through a single coaxial cable.

Common Usage:

  • Frequently used in surveillance systems where audio recording is required in addition to video.
  • Helps avoid running additional cables for microphones.

Advantages:

  • Simplifies cabling by combining video and audio in a single cable.
  • Ideal for CCTV systems that require audio monitoring.

Limitations:

  • Typically limited to analog or HD analog systems.
  • Not compatible with most IP-based systems.

Example Devices:

  • CCTV cameras with built-in microphones
  • DVRs with audio input

šŸ§© Key Differences:

Aspect POE (Power over Ethernet) POC (Power over Coax) AOC (Audio over Coax)
Cable Type Ethernet (Cat5e, Cat6) Coaxial (RG59, RG6) Coaxial (RG59, RG6)
Power Transmission Yes Yes No
Data/Signal Type Data (IP), Power Video, Power Video, Audio
Typical Use Cases IP cameras, VoIP phones, Wi-Fi APs Analog/HD analog cameras, legacy CCTV Surveillance systems with audio recording
Cable Length Limit Up to 100m (328 ft) Up to 500m (1640 ft) or more Similar to POC
Compatibility Modern IP-based systems Analog/HD analog systems Analog/HD analog systems
Advantages Simplifies power and data over Ethernet Utilises existing coax cables Combines video and audio in one cable

āœ… Summary of Use Cases:

  • POE is best for modern IP-based systems that need data and power over a single Ethernet cable.
  • POC is ideal for upgrading analog CCTV systems using existing coax cables, providing both video and power.
  • AOC is useful for adding audio capabilities to coax-based surveillance systems.
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